The Ashford University athletic department’s sustained academic prowess was recognized by the Midwest Collegiate Conference at the league’s annual meeting on July 29, leading to receipt of the coveted Presidents’ Cup. 

This is the second year the award has been presented to the institution with the highest percentage of student-athletes on postseason rosters with a grade point average over 3.25 during the previous academic year.  At Ashford University, 51% of the student-athletes on Ashford’s post season rosters had a GPA higher than 3.25 during the 2009-10 academic year. 

“This is an outstanding achievement for our student-athletes,” Ashford University athletics director Meg Schebler said. “It is really recognition for our entire university, as the faculty and staff have been extremely supportive of the student-athletes in their endeavors in the classroom and athletic arenas. Their willingness to go the extra mile is instrumental to our student-athletes’ success.”  

Schebler was presented the award last Thursday at the league’s athletics director meeting in LaCrosse, WI. Attending the meeting were representatives from all MCC institutions, including Clarke College, Grand View University, Iowa Wesleyan College, Mt. Mercy College, St. Ambrose University, Viterbo University, Waldorf College and William Penn University.

The award is sponsored by the Presidents from all schools within the Midwest Collegiate Conference. 

The Presidents’ Cup caps a stellar academic offseason that has featured 12 programs being named NAIA Scholar Teams, 83 student-athletes selected to the MCC Academic All-Conference list, and 19 student-athletes achieving Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete status.  “I am so proud of our student-athletes and coaching staff for their efforts and attention to the importance of academic success,” Schebler said. 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.